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Colmenar is a picturesque Spanish municipality located in the province of Malaga, in the autonomous community of Andalusia. Known as the capital of the Montes de Malaga, this charming town is located in the eastern part of the province, in the region of Axarquía. About 32 km from the city of Malaga and about 44 km from the city of Vélez-Málaga, Colmenar is an ideal destination for those looking to experience authentic Andalusian culture.
Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and with a rich history and cultural heritage, Colmenar offers its visitors a wide variety of activities and attractions. From walks through its picturesque streets and squares to tastings of its delicious local cuisine, there is something for everyone in this charming town.
In addition, Colmenar is the perfect starting point for exploring the Montes de Malaga and its surroundings. With a wide network of trails and hiking and cycling routes, nature lovers can enjoy stunning views and landscapes while exploring this beautiful region.
Discover Colmenar
Its origin is located after the Christian conquest and presents a layout of narrow streets and gentle slope with whitewashed houses.
In the history of Colmenar we can distinguish three sections:
- From prehistory to the conquest of Malaga by the Catholic Monarchs.
- From the end of the 15th century to the 17th century
- 18th and 20th centuries.
The character of “transit town” that marked until recently this town and its surroundings is something that is intrinsically linked to Colmenar and its history. It was a passage, among others, of Pre-Roman and Roman cultures, of the rebellious Umar B. Hafsun (Lord of Bobastro); of the Catholic Monarchs, of French troops, of those involved in various civil conflicts, of those who discovered the tourist possibilities of the Costa del Sol, etc.
Here you can enjoy its history and architecture, visiting places such as the Church of the Assumption and walking through its narrow streets and gentle slope with whitewashed houses. In addition, you can enjoy nature in the Sierra de Camarolos and the Jobo.
Gastronomy
Colmenar is one of the sweetest white villages in the Axarquía of Malaga, where the main product is its exquisite honey and its beehives. The town owes its name to the importance and tradition of beekeeping in the region.
Colmenar enjoys a rich local cuisine, based especially on oil and wine. From this cuisine come the most typical dishes such as Plato de los Montes, migas, chickpea stew, goat and snails. In addition, Colmenar is known for its excellent cured meats and sausages.
If you visit Colmenar we recommend you try some of the typical dishes that we have named.
Church of the Assumption
The Church of the Assumption is a building constructed in the 16th century and subsequently restored.
The Parish of Our Lady of the Assumption is located at Plaza de la iglesia, 33, 29170 Colmenar (Malaga).
Official website: https://www.malaga.es/es/laprovincia/patrimonio/lis_cd-5227/
Honey Museum
This museum is dedicated to disseminating the work done by bees and beekeepers and to promoting Malaga Honey. It has a large collection of beehives and beekeeping tools and features a giant bee and large-scale models of breeding combs to see their life cycle in detail.
- Hours: Monday to Friday from 9:30 to 14:00. Saturdays, Sundays: and holidays: Closed
- Website: https://www.museodelamiel.com/
Hiking
Colmenar is an ideal place for hiking. There are many routes available to explore the natural beauty of the area. Some of the best hiking routes in Colmenar include the Walk through the Cimas de Málaga: Monolito del Viento – Cerro Cuellar – Cerro de Mallén, Montes de Málaga: Tour around the Lagar de Maruján and P. N. Montes de Málaga: Pico del Viento and Cerro Cuéllar.
These routes offer stunning panoramic views and take you through beautiful natural landscapes. There are routes available for all skill levels, from easy walks to challenging ascents to mountain peaks.
Events
In addition to its rich history, stunning natural landscapes and delicious local cuisine, Colmenar also offers its visitors the opportunity to enjoy its vibrant festivities. From Christmas to Easter and other national holidays, Colmenar celebrates these occasions with a wide variety of events and activities for the whole family. Whether you’re looking to experience authentic Andalusian culture or simply enjoy a festive atmosphere, Colmenar is the perfect place to do so.
Spring Market
The Spring Market is held on April 23rd. It coincides with International Book Day and offers many educational and cultural activities.
Colmenar Fair
The Fair is a traditional festival that is celebrated in the town for 4 days each year in early August. It is an opportunity to live at the pace of traditional, popular and typical festivals of the Axarquía. If you are visiting Malaga, the fair can be an excellent opportunity to experience local culture and enjoy the festivities.
How to get there
To get to Colmenar from Malaga airport, you can take a bus or the suburban train and arrive at the Malaga bus station. From there you must take a direct bus to Colmenar. You can also rent a car at the airport and drive to Colmenar. The distance between Malaga airport and Colmenar is about 32 km and the journey by car takes approximately 40 minutes.
To get to Colmenar by car from Malaga airport, you can follow these directions:
- Exit the airport and take the MA-20 towards Malaga.
- Continue on the MA-20 until exit 7 towards the A-45 towards Antequera/Sevilla/Granada/Córdoba.
- Continue on the A-45 until exit 124 towards Casabermeja/Colmenar/Villanueva de la Concepción.
- Take the exit towards Colmenar and follow the signs to the town centre.
Remember that we offer transfers from Malaga airport to Colmenar, or from your place of residence. We can take you and bring you back whenever you need.
